MAKATI CITY – Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology finally achieved its first ever victory at the 16th National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (NAASCU) after the newcomer school nipped AMA University, 94-91, at the Makati Coliseum Monday morning (September 12). The Red Fox thus saw an end to their seven-game losing streak wherein they lost by an average of 21 points per game.

It was truly a dramatic come from behind win for EARIST as they slowly erased their 21-point deficit entering the fourth period, 62-73. Center Andreas Cahilig and guard Tolits Natividad led the rally with Natividad giving them the lead for good via a jumper with 5:48 remaining, 80-79.

EARIST held strong as the Titans began to fight back with Miguel Magpantay completing a layup that put them within a point, 91-92, and 25 ticks to go. Cahilig was sent to the free throw line with five seconds to play and promptly made both shots for the final tally and more cushion.

Ian Macaranas had a chance to reverse the game but his side triple attempt went nowhere to trigger a wild celebration at the Red Fox bench. “I’m just thankful for this win, that’s the only thing I can say right now,” said Coach Ringo Jimenez who really exerted a lot of effort to have the team admitted as the NAASCU’s 14th member.

Cahilig had a monster performance of 28 points and 19 rebounds. Natividad likewise had another stellar game with 21 points and 10 assists.

Jayson Jordan led the Titans with 21 points and 12 rebounds. Magapantay and Jezer Calma both finished with 15 as the Titans dropped to 3-5 and outside of the top eight that will advance to the playoffs.

Last Sunday, EARIST sent out a message after they nearly won against Rizal Technological University in overtime, 97-106. In that game, the Red Fox lost only due to a series of errors at the end of the fourth period of regulation showing that they can stay in step with the more established teams.